Actega launches water-based primer for HP Indigo presses

Actega has launched a water-based ACTDigi LEP Primer at Labelexpo Europe 2025, developed in partnership with HP and included in HP's newly expanded in-line primer portfolio.

The primer ensures optimal print performance for different types of labels produced on a wide range of substrates, including coated and uncoated paper, synthetics and metallized substrates. This performance is proven on even the most challenging structured substrates, such as velvety papers and wine labels.

Developed for the HP Indigo 6K, 6K+ and 8K Digital Press series, the new ACTDigi LEP Primer enhances ink adhesion, ensuring superior print quality for both in-line and near-line applications. The composition of the new water-based primer is compliant with numerous regulations, makes it easy to clean and handle, and supports HP Indigo processes.

Actega's ACTDigi LEP Primer stands out by enhancing ink adhesion. When combined with its extensive OPV offerings, including UV, LED, water-based, E-Beam and solvent-based varnishes, it provides a versatile option for numerous substrates while boosting press performance.

The new primer also enables converters to take their products to the next level and incorporate high-impact, visual effects, such as hot foil stamping, once the primer has been applied. Thanks to its water resistance, Actega's new primer is suitable for applications requiring durability, like beer labels. It can also be applied before thermal transfer printing to create other highly durable, long-lasting applications.

The primer has been developed to not only ensure the quality and value of the final PSL product but also with the converter experience at the forefront. The unique composition of the water-based primer extends the lifespan of critical press components, including the blanket and photopolymer printing plates. ACTDigi LEP Primer eliminates common issues, such as foaming and yellowing, and minimizes ghost images, ensuring smooth production and consistent results.

ACTDigi LEP Primer also delivers optimized primer consumption, providing significant economic advantages for users, and meets the highest regulatory standards. Compliant with the Swiss Ordinance and Nestlé's stringent quality requirements and free from solvents, heavy metals, phthalates and CMR substances, it is suitable for indirect food contact applications. Additionally, Actega received the Cradle to Cradle material health certification for ACTDigi LEP Primer, further demonstrating ACTEGA's commitment to sustainable and safe production practices.

Nacara and HF Labels, customers of HP, have both supported field tests for the ACTDigi LEP Primer.

'We work with a wide range of substrates, and Actega's ACTDigi LEP Primer ensures a uniform ink deposit without gaps, even on highly structured surfaces,' commented Vincent Garrigues, digital manager France/Switzerland at Labelys Group. 'With Actega's outstanding technical support, we've optimized press settings, reducing primer consumption and extending the service life of HP consumables like PIP and blankets. This saves time that would otherwise be spent on changes and calibrations. Additionally, the materials remain clear and do not yellow, which has been a game-changer for us.'

'We are delighted to introduce the ACTDigi LEP Primer at this year's Labelexpo Europe, a product born from our strong, long-standing partnership with HP,' noted Dr Thomas Sawitowski, senior vice president flexible packaging, Actega. 'This launch marks a significant milestone for both HP and Actega, reflecting our commitment to advancing print quality while delivering forward-thinking, flexible approaches that meet the evolving needs of the labels industry.'

'This launch is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision. Together we are introducing a primer that not only elevates print performance but also delivers the flexibility and reliability converters need to stay ahead in a dynamic market,' added Regina Guslitzer-Okner, head of supplies, applications and sustainability at HP Indigo.

Available in Europe this year, the ACTDigi LEP Primer will be available through Actega's global distribution and service network in 2026. On the Actega booth 3D41, numerous samples produced using the new primer are on show throughout Labelexpo Europe 2025.